[SOLVED!] Very dissapointed with LTE Samsung Phablets, any opinions please? - Galaxy Tab S2 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

NOT DISSAPOINTED ANYMORE BOUGHT A SM-T715Y AND EVERYTING WORK FINE NOW, THANKS TO ALL
Hi, i bought this 3 Samsung Phablets
sm-t235y one year ago
sm-t705 3 months ago
sm-t715c yesterday
Im really dissapointed with this devices, all 3 devices are SUPPOSED to be LTE but none of them got LTE on US T-mobile. I understand its because of LTE bands, but im really frustrated cant get a phablet that works in LTE, its crazy, i know about businness model and LTE band for each region of world, but have no any other choice of buying this models because US version of this LTE devices has no phone capability.
H+ data seems not be as reliable as LTE, i have a Galaxy Note 4 provided by T-Mobile and LTE works really great on it! <10ms ping, better coverage, duble as fast as H+ download and uploads speed
I notice difference in Skype or Whatsapp calls the difference between LTE and H+ . Because of that i want to get a LTE working phablet.... i use a lot voip calls
sh-t715c is a very new device so there is no too much information but i have seen that sm-715 (not the sm-715c) in some pictures, seems to have proximity sensor and US LTE bands, it is true?
Any opinions will be welcome because im little lost, and dont know
*When i talk about LTE im talking not about just the LTE icon... im talking about for example... lower ping times than 40ms (on all this devices ping time is +-40ms) and (HOPE) better data service coverage with less interruptions.
Thanx in advance
NOT DISSAPOINTED ANYMORE BOUGHT A SM-T715Y AND EVERYTING WORK FINE NOW, THANKS TO ALL

What you are describing isn't Samsung's fault. Basically, it was your choice to purchase this specific model (815C). You could have purchased the T-Mobile specific model (817T) which has all of T-Mobile's LTE bands or the an unlocked AT&T model (817A) or an unlocked Canadian model (817W) which also have all of T-Mobile's bands or the international unlocked model (815N) which has T-Mobile's main LTE bands (and possibly all of them, which is what I have been trying to verify in this thread but no one has replied to it). The 815N goes for $539 on Amazon. If you are in a non-LTE band 12 area for T-Mobile then the 815N version will work just as well as the 817T, A or W versions on T-Mobile. If you are in a band 12 area then I would strongly advise to purchase the 817T, or unlocked A or W models.
In other words, the only advice anyone can give you is... if you really want good performance on T-Mobile, you need to buy a variant which supports it.

to further clarify..if you are looking for LTE AND voice calling then you should get (have got) the international version as the carriers block out the cellular voice calling (sure wifi-based skype etc always exist) at least that has been the practice all along upto the previous generation (not Samsung's fault..for that matter the Ipad mini lte does not have cellular voice calling either).

@mac231us, what is the full Samsung model number of your s2 and what is the model's FCC ID? (if it's not listed on the box or device then it should be listed under regulatory information under the about device menu under the system menu).

T815Y has LTE on ATT's network here in the states. I have one myself.
This one from this seller to be exact.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281786597546?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

ProStreetCamaro said:
T815Y has LTE on ATT's network here in the states. I have one myself.
This one from this seller to be exact.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281786597546?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
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With respect to the OP, unfortunately there is no band 12 on the Y variant.

myphone12345 said:
What you are describing isn't Samsung's fault. Basically, it was your choice to purchase this specific model (815C). You could have purchased the T-Mobile specific model (817T) which has all of T-Mobile's LTE bands or the an unlocked AT&T model (817A) or an unlocked Canadian model (817W) which also have all of T-Mobile's bands or the international unlocked model (815N) which has T-Mobile's main LTE bands (and possibly all of them, which is what I have been trying to verify in this thread but no one has replied to it). The 815N goes for $539 on Amazon. If you are in a non-LTE band 12 area for T-Mobile then the 815N version will work just as well as the 817T, A or W versions on T-Mobile. If you are in a band 12 area then I would strongly advise to purchase the 817T, or unlocked A or W models.
In other words, the only advice anyone can give you is... if you really want good performance on T-Mobile, you need to buy a variant which supports it.
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Hi myphone12345, i think you did not read me in deept or i have been not so clear
1-first of all, i have to say that i think that i could not use a 10 inches tab as a phone as you said... if i choose this models was because i like a phone between 7 and 8.4 max inches can fit in my pocket (they fit)... you recommend a 9.7 phone.... would have to keep phone on on hand or a bag.
2-In other hand, you recommend me to but a T-Mobile specific model (817T)... that, my friend, is not a phone... it is a tablet, it does not have speaker on front beside the front camera.... and again 9.7 inches....
3-Obviusly a tmobile device will have all of T-Mobile's LTE bands... thats my point... i want to a 7 to 8.4 phablet.... i mean a tablet with real phone capabilities, i know skype, google voice, and all voip and no... dont want that want to use a regular phone
I conclusion, in my opinion there is no samsung phablet 7 to 8.4 inches that work with all real lte bands and have real phone capabilities

mac231us said:
to further clarify..if you are looking for LTE AND voice calling then you should get (have got) the international version as the carriers block out the cellular voice calling (sure wifi-based skype etc always exist) at least that has been the practice all along upto the previous generation (not Samsung's fault..for that matter the Ipad mini lte does not have cellular voice calling either).
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dont understand friend, these are all international versions with LTE (not us LTE) and voice calling.... talking about sm-t715c specifically, i can make calls, use data service, but not real LTE speeds like as example my galaxy note 4.... all sm-t715c works great only problem is it has not LTE.... just H+.... and im talking about some "malificent" deals betwen samsung and companies like tmo att verizon... that samsung does not sell devices with US LTE because samsung obviusly has a big bussines with these carriers so samsung "help" tmo att verizon to users have to buy his devices....
but..... when a mad guy like me want a phablet, cant find one, because all samsungs tablet on tmo, att and verizon DOES NOT HAVE REAL VOICE CALL CAPABILITIES... just check all of them has not the speaker on front at side of camera...
do you understand my point? sorry if im not so clear my english is not so good

myphone12345 said:
With respect to the OP, unfortunately there is no band 12 on the Y variant.
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well, as i said above.... it sounds great... but cant fit on my pocket... looking for a 7 to 8.4 one...

ProStreetCamaro said:
T815Y has LTE on ATT's network here in the states. I have one myself.
This one from this seller to be exact.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281786597546?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well, as i said above.... it sounds great... but cant fit on my pocket... looking for a 7 to 8.4 one...

myphone12345 said:
@mac231us, what is the full Samsung model number of your s2 and what is the model's FCC ID? (if it's not listed on the box or device then it should be listed under regulatory information under the about device menu under the system menu).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
check on attached files.... thanx

wallyhenderson said:
dont understand friend, these are all international versions with LTE (not us LTE) and voice calling.... talking about sm-t715c specifically, i can make calls, use data service, but not real LTE speeds like as example my galaxy note 4.... all sm-t715c works great only problem is it has not LTE.... just H+.... and im talking about some "malificent" deals betwen samsung and companies like tmo att verizon... that samsung does not sell devices with US LTE because samsung obviusly has a big bussines with these carriers so samsung "help" tmo att verizon to users have to buy his devices....
but..... when a mad guy like me want a phablet, cant find one, because all samsungs tablet on tmo, att and verizon DOES NOT HAVE REAL VOICE CALL CAPABILITIES... just check all of them has not the speaker on front at side of camera...
do you understand my point? sorry if im not so clear my english is not so good
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I am confused too now...lol (sorry)
anyway...this much I know
my t715 (not C, Y etc) just T715 gets LTE on ATT (I have checked and let alone all the checking from all my experience using the tab S T805, Tab pro T325, Huawei Honor mediapad x2 gem-703, sharp sh-06f, Tab 4 7.0 sm-t235, oppo find 5, xperia ultraz, Chinese 7 inch mediatek-based phablet, and other NON-U.S carrier-branded devices (yes device junkie), this is the only device that I have used-again talking from among the non-u.s carrier-branded devices that I have used...this is the only device aside from oppo find 5 and the ultra z that actually does LTE (from checks AND how it FEELS speed-wise)...others all managed like H+
bands are LTE (B1)2100/(B3)1800/(B7)2600/(B8)900/(B28)700 MHz
---------- Post added at 06:03 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:58 AM ----------
wallyhenderson said:
check on attached files.... thanx
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Would this be the Chinese version of the t715 (hence the C...sorry if late to the discussion here or missed something already communicated)
https://translate.google.com/transl...UMqaxD5pZefME%2BH%2BnKk9SbX97MmDB&prev=search
Link above from TENAA (China equivalent of the U.S. FCC)
says Network frequency 900MHz, 1800MHz, 2GHz, Band 38, Band 39, Band 40, Band 41 (2555-2575 MHZ, 2575-2635 MHZ, 2635-2655 MHZ), Band 1, Band 3,1.9GHz, I
if so, (maybe?) it could explain the difference in bands/speeds versus the other international t715?
I see the C version is being sold on Amazon here in the U.S

@walleyhenderson, what @Mac231 and I are trying to say is that if you got the SM-T715Y or SM-T715N instead of the SM-T715C then you would have had both LTE and voice calling in most places with T-Mobile (and all places with AT&T).
What you wouldn't have had is band 12 with T-Mobile but that is not T-Mobile's main LTE band and it may not even be deployed where you are anyway.

myphone12345 said:
@walleyhenderson, what @Mac231 and I are trying to say is that if you got the SM-T715Y or SM-T715N instead of the SM-T715C then you would have had both LTE and voice calling in most places with T-Mobile (and all places with AT&T).
What you wouldn't have had is band 12 with T-Mobile but that is not T-Mobile's main LTE band and it may not even be deployed where you are anyway.
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Ohhh i understand now... thats what im looking for... but sadly... i been searching on google... and cant find where to buy SM-T715Y or SM-T715N, do you know any place to buy any of these? what do you recommend SM-T715Y or SM-T715N
thanx

Where are you located? I can sell you mine.

wallyhenderson said:
Ohhh i understand now... thats what im looking for... but sadly... i been searching on google... and cant find where to buy SM-T715Y or SM-T715N, do you know any place to buy any of these? what do you recommend SM-T715Y or SM-T715N
thanx
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Click to collapse
You can easily find it on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Galaxy-T715-Black-International/dp/B0124SAQLI

According to what I can gather, as is the same as it's predecessor the Tab S, the international version is simply called SM-T715/T815. The T715n or T715no is a Korean model.
International versions don't usually have a letter after the model number.
My Tab S is an international version and is simply called a SM-T805.
I agree it's real confusing as to which model is which.

ashyx said:
According to what I can gather, as is the same as it's predecessor the Tab S, the international version is simply called SM-T715/T815. The T715n or T715no is a Korean model.
International versions don't usually have a letter after the model number.
My Tab S is an international version and is simply called a SM-T805.
I agree it's real confusing as to which model is which.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They all usually do have letters after the model name, it's just that it isn't always listed everywhere. Also, "N" is just the first letter. Meaning, that the full model number is actually SM-T715NZKEDBT for the black one and SM-T715NZWEDBT for the white one. Those are the variants of the Tab S2 8" LTE tablet that Samsung officially sells in Germany for example. Not sure where the SM-T715YXXXXX model is officially destined to by Samsung (my guess would be South America).

myphone12345 said:
They all usually do have letters after the model name, it's just that it isn't always listed everywhere. Also, "N" is just the first letter. Meaning, that the full model number is actually SM-T715NZKEDBT for the black one and SM-T715NZWEDBT for the white one. Those are the variants of the Tab S2 8" LTE tablet that Samsung officially sells in Germany for example. Not sure where the SM-T715YXXXXX model is officially destined to by Samsung (my guess would be South America).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm gonna see if I can find the boxes to my tab s and tab a to see if I can confirm this.
Even Samsung themselves don't add the n to any of their international firmwares or source code, however they do for the rest.
The only official firmware with the n variable is Korean.

ashyx said:
I'm gonna see if I can find the boxes to my tab s and tab a to see if I can confirm this.
Even Samsung themselves don't add the n to any of their international firmwares or source code, however they do for the rest.
The only official firmware with the n variable is Korean.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The full Samsung model number of the black LTE 8" S2 Korean variant is SM-T715NZKEKOO. It supports the same bands as the European variant I mentioned above.

Related

[Q] Samsung Galaxy Note LTE Detective Case?

Samsung Galaxy Note Korean Version SHV E160S clears FCC
https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas...e=N&application_id=977164&fcc_id='A3LSHVE160S
This FCC clearance is only validated with bluetooth communication.
If this is the Korean version why is it clearing with the FCC
if it is the Korean version? Maybe a just in case we decide to release in the US?
Does this imply as has been speculated as well that the Samsung Galaxy Note Korean version will have LTE? And compatibility with AT&T LTE? Will there be incompatibility with the Samsung Exynos processor and LTE, so it will include the Qualcomm's Snapdragon S3? I personally prefer the Exynos as it tests better then the Qualcomm.
------------------------------
As well another version US(?) GT-i9220 only HSPA+(only as if that was crazy slow, haha) cleared the FCC:
https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas...=N&application_id=258095&fcc_i d='A3LGTI9220'
--------------------------------
Tired of these games by the carriers and manufactures!
I just want a clear answer is AT&T getting a LTE version of the note
within the next 3 months? And if not will the Korean version have LTE compatibility
with AT&T LTE? And when will the Korean version be released?
--------------------------------
Any other detectives work shared appreciated?
Please no speculation without some facts as there is plenty of that already.
Thanks
isimme said:
Samsung Galaxy Note Korean Version SHV E160S clears FCC
https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas...e=N&application_id=977164&fcc_id='A3LSHVE160S
This FCC clearance is only validated with bluetooth communication.
If this is the Korean version why is it clearing with the FCC
if it is the Korean version? Maybe a just in case we decide to release in the US?
Does this imply as has been speculated as well that the Samsung Galaxy Note Korean version will have LTE? And compatibility with AT&T LTE? Will there be incompatibility with the Samsung Exynos processor and LTE, so it will include the Qualcomm's Snapdragon S3? I personally prefer the Exynos as it tests better then the Qualcomm.
------------------------------
As well another version US(?) GT-i9220 only HSPA+(only as if that was crazy slow, haha) cleared the FCC:
https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas...=N&application_id=258095&fcc_i d='A3LGTI9220'
--------------------------------
Tired of these games by the carriers and manufactures!
I just want a clear answer is AT&T getting a LTE version of the note
within the next 3 months? And if not will the Korean version have LTE compatibility
with AT&T LTE? And when will the Korean version be released?
--------------------------------
Any other detectives work shared appreciated?
Please no speculation without some facts as there is plenty of that already.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Note came out in EU in the beginning of NOV, add 8 months to that for the release date in the US
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
I can't imagine at&t releasing a non lte note now that they launched the skyrocket. I've been wrong before...
I think the official ATT version will have LTE and it will arrive sometime after it's released in Korea. I'd earlier anticipated the USA release as before mid December but time will tell.
I almost bought an imported unlocked Note last week but when Newegg didn't have it in stock I decided to wait and if there is news shortly about an LTE Note I think I'll hold off a little longer.
I do hope the LTE version has an even bigger battery and comes out of the box with ICS...
Brian
I'll defiantly buy an AT&T LTE if it comes out. I can handme down my UK Note to my mom & get her on an unlimited dumbphone plan.
I would buy an Note if it Ran on AT&T and had HSPA+ and AT&T's upcoming flavor of LTE.
hello there... i'm new to the site but found this post while Googling for details on the Korean version of the Note. i'm actually getting mine tomorrow, most likely. I also have an iPhone with AT&T in the US. i'm also going to the US in a couple days for work. if there's something you'd like me to try out with the Note, let me know.
You're getting the Korean version of the Note?
I think what a lot of us would like to know is if the Korean version will support T-Mobile's 3G data bands. I've personally got a very favorable plan, and don't want to ditch it--but really want the Note.
malefactor said:
You're getting the Korean version of the Note?
I think what a lot of us would like to know is if the Korean version will support T-Mobile's 3G data bands. I've personally got a very favorable plan, and don't want to ditch it--but really want the Note.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yep. i'm getting the Samsung Note... Korean version sometime tomorrow or the next day. it'll be my first Android phone.
unfortunately, i have an AT&T acct in the US so i wont be able to check compatibility with T-Mobile. i'll see when i get back to NYC on NYE if any of my friends do.
meanhoe said:
yep. i'm getting the Samsung Note... Korean version sometime tomorrow or the next day. it'll be my first Android phone.
unfortunately, i have an AT&T acct in the US so i wont be able to check compatibility with T-Mobile. i'll see when i get back to NYC on NYE if any of my friends do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you please tell us how much it cost you? and does it support NFC?
BR
meanhoe said:
hello there... i'm new to the site but found this post while Googling for details on the Korean version of the Note. i'm actually getting mine tomorrow, most likely. I also have an iPhone with AT&T in the US. i'm also going to the US in a couple days for work. if there's something you'd like me to try out with the Note, let me know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@ meanhoe:
Thanks for your generous offer.
Please can you let us know if your Korean Note works with AT&T's LTE,
does it have NFC,
and if you feel comfortable the cost you paid(subsidized or unsubsidized)?
yes it supports NFC. i'm having some issues getting the APN to work on my AT&T acct.
This should be well known/easy, but it's not. Please correct me where I'm wrong.
Everything I've been able to find tells me T-mobile 3g operates on 1700/2100 bands. This may be dependent on region. (so one area uses 2100, one area uses 1700)
This is not the same as AT&T.
SK Telecom operates on the UMTS 2100 band. So there MIGHT be compatibility with T-Mobile here. But my fear is it's only partial compatibility, so an $800 phone might work at full speed in only half the US T-mobile areas. If there's a handy map to point out what bands are used where, I'd appreciate it.
So I think, on AT&T, your SK Telecom note will be able to connect GPRS and EDGE. But not 3g. If you get a T-mobile SIM, you might be able to connect, depending..
t-mobile 1700
You're close, T-Mobile 3g requires BOTH 1700 and 2100 to work. It downloads on 2100 and then uploads on 1700. It MUST make a FULL cycle or T-Mobile will assume that your phone is unable to connect on 3g and bump you down to edge.
So, meanhoe, you could toss in a T-Mobile sim and boot. If you get 3g, that would be great, but more likely you will only get edge. Then you could go to your frequencies/bands menu and turn on 1700 and see if you can get 3g then. But the people that have tried had to do a factory reset when it didn't work, so that doesn't sound like fun.
Thanks for your help meanhoe!
-GT
Importing from korea the LTE version
Does anybody know how to import the Galaxy Note LTE SHV-E160S from Korea ?
I search everywhere.... but since I don't speak Korean it makes it more conplicated !!!!
Or if anybody sells it somewhere ? (...like before christmass!!!!)
Thanks
I would like to know this too, where can I import/buy one?
Korean LTE in 800 MHZ frequency range, AT&T runs in 700MHZ
From what I have read the Korean GNote wil not support AT&T USA LTE.
I may be wroing here but ....
at least one thing for sure, my SK-Telecom Galaxy Note LTE does not connect to 3G network for neither T-Mobile nor AT&T.
LTE is not covered in my area, so couldn't test on that.

Deciding between T-Mobile, AT&T, & International Unlocked Note 4

Which variant of the Note 4 should I buy? I live in the states, but don't use the LTE coverage, but would be great to future-proof my device. I travel around the globe at times. I would rather have the warranty in the states than having a warranty belonging to some other country that I never travel to. If I had to go between the T-Mobile and AT&T version (obviously Unlocking these devices will incur an additional fee), which one should I buy? What about the International version? What are your thoughts. Please let me know. Thank you.
arjun90 said:
Which variant of the Note 4 should I buy? I live in the states, but don't use the LTE coverage, but would be great to future-proof my device. I travel around the globe at times. I would rather have the warranty in the states than having a warranty belonging to some other country that I never travel to. If I had to go between the T-Mobile and AT&T version (obviously Unlocking these devices will incur an additional fee), which one should I buy? What about the International version? What are your thoughts. Please let me know. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T-Mobile give you free Wifi calling, international texts and data, $.20 international calls if you can't get on Wifi, plus free texts and voicemail in the air through Go-Go. That's why I'm getting it.
Thanks for the information. I too am considering T-mobile and just signed up for their test-drive phone.
JimSmith94 said:
T-Mobile give you free Wifi calling, international texts and data, $.20 international calls if you can't get on Wifi, plus free texts and voicemail in the air through Go-Go. That's why I'm getting it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
arjun90 said:
Which variant of the Note 4 should I buy? I live in the states, but don't use the LTE coverage, but would be great to future-proof my device. I travel around the globe at times. I would rather have the warranty in the states than having a warranty belonging to some other country that I never travel to. If I had to go between the T-Mobile and AT&T version (obviously Unlocking these devices will incur an additional fee), which one should I buy? What about the International version? What are your thoughts. Please let me know. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The previous answers seem to be talking about using a T-Mobile Note 4 and getting T-Mobile service. Your question's about which device would be the most versatile used both in the U.S. and overseas. Definitely go with international version. Samsung's UK site shows it supports both AT&T and T-Mobile's LTE bands as well as additional international bands neither of the U.S. phones support.
While you may be able to use a AT&T Note 4 on T-Mobile and vice versa their radios are optimized for the networks they are designed to be used on. I'm in an AT&T VoLTE market and can use it on my Note 3. A friend here using a T-Mobile N3 on AT&T can't using the same APN.
My current Note 3 is my first carrier phone out of a half dozen over four years so I have a lot of Samsung international device experience. I've only used them on AT&T and have no interest in T-Mobile as a carrier. They've performed fine on AT&T. But none of them got the same level of connectivity and data speeds as friends with AT&T phones when tested from the exact same locations. In the year I've had my AT&T Note 3 I've never had a network connectivity problem. With my international phones they'd occasionally lose connectivity and I'd have to reboot them to get them back on the network. Like when turning them on when landing at destination after a flight; they couldn't find the network on their own when moving from one AT&T network design (they're different by region through acquisition) to another.
I'm typing this on an international 3G N10.1-14. 90+% of the time I have no network issues and it works brilliantly overseas. Going with an international device is always safer than a carrier device because Samsung's international radios are generic. Every carrier's device has its radio optimized for their specific network. If you read the forums where people are using T-Mobile (and even Canadian phones) on AT&T it's not all peaches and cream. My recommendation is to go with an EU international Note 4 because of its generic support for a ton of global bands. I'd avoid Asian phones because their bands are very different as is the pre-installed s/w.
Good luck.
Thanks for a very careful and thorough explanation. Are there any ebay sellers selling the UK Note 4 version? How should I go about adding warranty? Squaretrade?
BarryH_GEG said:
The previous answers seem to be talking about using a T-Mobile Note 4 and getting T-Mobile service. Your question's about which device would be the most versatile used both in the U.S. and overseas. Definitely go with international version. Samsung's UK site shows it supports both AT&T and T-Mobile's LTE bands as well as additional international bands neither of the U.S. phones support.
While you may be able to use a AT&T Note 4 on T-Mobile and vice versa their radios are optimized for the networks they are designed to be used on. I'm in an AT&T VoLTE market and can use it on my Note 3. A friend here using a T-Mobile N3 on AT&T can't using the same APN.
My current Note 3 is my first carrier phone out of a half dozen over four years so I have a lot of Samsung international device experience. I've only used them on AT&T and have no interest in T-Mobile as a carrier. They've performed fine on AT&T. But none of them got the same level of connectivity and data speeds as friends with AT&T phones when tested from the exact same locations. In the year I've had my AT&T Note 3 I've never had a network connectivity problem. With my international phones they'd occasionally lose connectivity and I'd have to reboot them to get them back on the network. Like when turning them on when landing at destination after a flight; they couldn't find the network on their own when moving from one AT&T network design (they're different by region through acquisition) to another.
I'm typing this on an international 3G N10.1-14. 90+% of the time I have no network issues and it works brilliantly overseas. Going with an international device is always safer than a carrier device because Samsung's international radios are generic. Every carrier's device has its radio optimized for their specific network. If you read the forums where people are using T-Mobile (and even Canadian phones) on AT&T it's not all peaches and cream. My recommendation is to go with an EU international Note 4 because of its generic support for a ton of global bands. I'd avoid Asian phones because their bands are very different as is the pre-installed s/w.
Good luck.
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arjun90 said:
Are there any ebay sellers selling the UK Note 4 version? How should I go about adding warranty? Squaretrade?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd stay away from eBay. Most LTE Samsung devices sold there are Asian. The dollar's exceptionally strong right now. I'd buy it from handtec.co.uk if I were you. In fact, if I wasn't getting the Note 4 for free because I'm on Next I'd buy my Note 4 from Handtec too. You can even get it in bronze and be the first on your block. Converted from GBP it's currently $806 including two-day FedEx shipping; that's cheaper than AT&T's $826 without tax. Because you're buying a UK phone in the UK Samsung's 24 month UK warranty is intact. You'll have to pay to send it there if it needs service but it's better than nothing. I had a UK SGS2 that had a cracked bezel and Samsung UK was very accommodating in repairing it. I'd get SquareTrade anyway and they'll cover an imported UK phone. The UK is also one of the first region's to receive updates so that's a plus too.
Seems like Clove is able to take off the region-lock whereas Handtec is unable to. Do the UK LTE Note 4's support T-Mobile's Band 12. Seems like I just want as many bands as possible as you never know when you want to switch to another US Carrier.
I'm currently using an MVNO (PureTalk) that relies on AT&T's network; currently using an unlocked T-Mobile Note 2 in Mint Condition, soon to be sold.
I do see how the European Model N910F is more versatile and at the same time, most expensive if purchased in the states (~$1300) compared to the Korean LTE Variants and Hong Kong Exynos (910U) Variant. The T-Mobile units are available online for $~750.
JimSmith94 said:
T-Mobile give you free Wifi calling, international texts and data, $.20 international calls if you can't get on Wifi, plus free texts and voicemail in the air through Go-Go. That's why I'm getting it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to confirm, does Samsung consider the N910F to be an international unlocked Note 4?
I can't seem to tell what is the official International Unlocked version
http://www.clove.co.uk/samsung-galaxy-note-4
Would you go for the 910'F' or 910'C'?

Looking to get an Unlocked Note 5...Model?

I am looking to get an Unlocked Note 5 in Silver (does anyone have this or have you seen it - does it look as good in person)
My question is:
There are many unlocked versions, but I believe there are several versions that may work in the US
But I am thinking it is one of: N920C or N9200 or N920I (I am thinking it is the N920I, with the "I" standing for International?)
Can anyone tell me which works on GSM in US, T-Mobile
Thanks
eric0668 said:
I am looking to get an Unlocked Note 5 in Silver (does anyone have this or have you seen it - does it look as good in person)
My question is:
There are many unlocked versions, but I believe there are several versions that may work in the US
But I am thinking it is one of: N920C or N9200 or N920I (I am thinking it is the N920I, with the "I" standing for International?)
Can anyone tell me which works on GSM in US, T-Mobile
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would stay away from the N920C if you are going to use it in the US. I have the N920C and on ATT network it is getting only 3G and the signal is considerably weaker than on other phones compatible with ATT.
What does the N920C stand for. I think I need the "I" don't you.
eric0668 said:
What does the N920C stand for. I think I need the "I" don't you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are designed for different continents. The N920I is for - Australia, New Zealand, Singapore. The N920C is for middle east, russia, africa, israel ...etc. If you can get the Unlocked T-mobile variant, you're good. Otherwise checkout the willmyphonework.net or the "The Ulimate Note 5 Band Guide."
Are you sure the I isnf for international.
That's what I wanna know. What one is able to be used. There is no such thing as a T-Mobile unlocked version. Yes there is one that works on T-Mobile, ATT etc. If you hear of the specific model I'd be grateful.
eric0668 said:
Are you sure the I isnf for international.
That's what I wanna know. What one is able to be used. There is no such thing as a T-Mobile unlocked version. Yes there is one that works on T-Mobile, ATT etc. If you hear of the specific model I'd be grateful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.willmyphonework.net/
Thank you really ALot. I tried that and they got 2 blue checks and a yellow. So the same #frustrating
I bought the N920i version and work perfectly with ATT and TMOBILE. It have an amazing internet speed, i'm talking about more than 45MBPS.
Is a grate phone.
Thank you. I was thinking that was for International. Then I saw some sites (Expansys) who was selling the N9200 and was told they were the same.
thanks so much
Yes, N9200 is pretty much the same as N920i but dual sim card model. It should work in US. Be careful, this model can come from China and Google apps may be a problem.
I have ordered this model from Expansys and it should come from South Korea.
Spoke to Samsung via chat, NewEgg and Best Buy most will work to some degree here . BUT they said the one made for gsm carriers in US is the N920G. It can be had on NewEgg or Expansys but def eBay Amazon and Best Buy for $100 more than other places
just adding my 2 cents worth: i'm using a 64GB Silver SM-N9208 (Taiwan - CSC is BRI) dual SIM Note 5 on ATT & T-Mobile and it's working great. no network issues at all. 5 of the 10 people on my current project use Note 5's (including me); the other 4 Note 5 users are in awe of my device, especially the Silver color and the fact that i can make/receive calls from both SIMs at the same time.
jtOttawa said:
http://www.willmyphonework.net/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are so many threads dealing with this issue.
You should either use the above website or use pdadb.net to see which LTE bands a particular model uses and then compare that to the LTE bands your carrier uses (which is what the above website actually does)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Both N920C and N920I should work fine in US except one 3G band for T-Mobile....but when it comes to Software updates...what do you think is first to get official updates? N920I being the Australia model, would it be after N920C? I heard sometimes its after even US models...Thoughts?

Midnight black 512 GB version for tmobile

Where can I find one that'll work with tmobile?
You'd have to purchase an international unlocked version from a website like clove.co.uk
When you check out there is an option for them to open the box and insert a local sim card to unlock the device for use in other markets.
Looking for the same thing. Is there a reliable online US source for the 512gb black Note 9? Also what will we be losing by getting an unlocked version, I guess besides video calling on TMobile? TMobile Tuesday..?
dominick_7 said:
Looking for the same thing. Is there a reliable online US source for the 512gb black Note 9? Also what will we be losing by getting an unlocked version, I guess besides video calling on TMobile? TMobile Tuesday..?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app from the Google Play Store.
It works on any phone,provided you have a T-Mobile account.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.tuesdays&hl=en_US
Same goes for T-Mobile DIGITS,just grab the app from the Play Store,log-in & set-up.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.digits&hl=en_US
As for what you'll be losing?
LTE Band71
Not sure how well an international version works as far as signal strength/WI-FI Calling/VoLTE,but,my guess would be to go with a dual SIM version that has the QUALCOMM Snapdragon chip vs the Samsung Exynos Chip:
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 8GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...2a:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930713601
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 6GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...57:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521918316706
********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Samsung EXYNOS 8 GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...15:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930711183
Samsung EXYNOS 6 GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...ff:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=502408235508
KOLIOSIS said:
You can download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app from the Google Play Store.
It works on any phone,provided you have a T-Mobile account.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.tuesdays&hl=en_US
Same goes for T-Mobile DIGITS,just grab the app from the Play sSore,log-in & set-up.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.digits&hl=en_US
As for what you'll be losing?
LTE Band71
Not sure how well an international version works as far as signal strength/WI-FI Calling/VoLTE,but,my guess would be to go with a dual SIM version that has the QUALCOMM Snapdragon chip vs the Samsung Exynos Chip:
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 8GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...2a:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930713601
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 6GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...57:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521918316706
********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Samsung EXYNOS 8 GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...15:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930711183
Samsung EXYNOS 6 GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...ff:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=502408235508
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool, thank you for clarifying. About the band, are you sure, people are reporting it has LTE band71? Also do we know which is better, the Snapdragon for the 8gb version or Exynos for 6gb? I guess there's only root for the exynos, but I haven't rooted in years and not sure I'll mess with it.
dominick_7 said:
Cool, thank you for clarifying. About the band, are you sure, people are reporting it has LTE band71? Also do we know which is better, the Snapdragon for the 8gb version or Exynos for 6gb? I guess there's only root for the exynos, but I haven't rooted in years and not sure I'll mess with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know the US Qualcomm has Band 71,but,every site,including Samsung's sites in overseas Qualcomm markets,do not show Band 71.
Perhaps once the T-Mobile US SIM Card is installed,it's activated,if that's even possible,with or without flashing T-Mobile US Firmware...... & IDK if T-Mobile US Firmware can be flashed on an international Qualcomm model.
It's still early in the game, surely someone will post here @ XDA in the coming days.
I'd like to know myself, so that I'm armed with the information for next year's Note 10.
Canada has an unlocked black model that uses the same bands as the US. Not sure about band 71, but probably the closest you'd get compatibility wise.
KOLIOSIS said:
I know the US Qualcomm has Band 71,but,every site,including Samsung's sites in overseas Qualcomm markets,do not show Band 71.
Perhaps once the T-Mobile US SIM Card is installed,it's activated,if that's even possible,with or without flashing T-Mobile US Firmware...... & IDK if T-Mobile US Firmware can be flashed on an international Qualcomm model.
It's still early in the game, surely someone will post here @ XDA in the coming days.
I'd like to know myself, so that I'm armed with the information for next year's Note 10.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah k. So does that mean even if I buy the 8gb 512gb unlocked version from say Best Buy in the US it won't have band 71? Otherwise it sounds like the ideal situation would be if the TMobile firmware can be flashed to the international model? I guess Im wondering, are all 512gb unlocked versions lacking that band or just ones not bought in the US like from Best Buy? I know I want the 8gb 512gb version, in black if possible, but if Im without band 71 I can deal with the stupid blue colored one as long as I have the 8gb/512gb version. They seem to be saying VoLTE and wifi calling works on the unlocked version.. does that mean it has band 71? https://forums.androidcentral.com/s...208-carrier-vs-unlocked-note-9-questions.html.
dominick_7 said:
Ah k. So does that mean even if I buy the 8gb 512gb unlocked version from say Best Buy in the US it won't have band 71? Otherwise it sounds like the ideal situation would be if the TMobile firmware can be flashed to the international model? I guess Im wondering, are all 512gb unlocked versions lacking that band or just ones not bought in the US like from Best Buy? I know I want the 8gb 512gb version, in black if possible, but if Im without band 71 I can deal with the stupid blue colored one as long as I have the 8gb/512gb version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure the US Unlocked version has Band 71,it's just not available in Black,at least for now.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs
Edit:
@dominick_7
Band 71 is not listed on Best Buy's specs.
Looks like your best bet is to wait for others to post their experiences, or,contact Samsung/check their site.
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-galaxy-note9-128gb-unlocked-ocean-blue/6278210.p?skuId=6278210
EDIT #2
@dominick_7
Here's another site stating the US Unlocked version does indeed have Band 71,so you'll definitely have to do your homework before buying:
https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/
KOLIOSIS said:
I'm pretty sure the US Unlocked version has Band 71,it's just not available in Black,st least for now.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs
Edit:
@Dominick
Band 71 is not listed on Best Buy's specs.
Looks like your beet bet is to wait for others to post their experiences, or,contact Samsung/check their site.
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-galaxy-note9-128gb-unlocked-ocean-blue/6278210.p?skuId=6278210
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah k. So safest bet for the 512gb variant is either the US carrier/tmobile for quickest updates but stupid colors and bloatware or thee US unlocked for slower updates but less bloatware..? What's the argument to get an unlocked version over carrier otherwise? I guess the price for getting it in black is no 71 band. Still looking at the canadian one to see if it has 71. https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/.
Edit.. crap. wait if these people are reporting the US unlocked has VoLTE and wifi calling doesnt that mean it has band 71 or..? https://forums.androidcentral.com/s...208-carrier-vs-unlocked-note-9-questions.html
---------- Post added at 10:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:25 PM ----------
Guyinlaca said:
Canada has an unlocked black model that uses the same bands as the US. Not sure about band 71, but probably the closest you'd get compatibility wise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool, do you know what the model number is? And why go with unlocked, just for the black color and less bloat even though it may have slower updates?
KOLIOSIS said:
I know the US Qualcomm has Band 71,but,every site,including Samsung's sites in overseas Qualcomm markets,do not show Band 71.
Perhaps once the T-Mobile US SIM Card is installed,it's activated,if that's even possible,with or without flashing T-Mobile US Firmware...... & IDK if T-Mobile US Firmware can be flashed on an international Qualcomm model.
It's still early in the game, surely someone will post here @ XDA in the coming days.
I'd like to know myself, so that I'm armed with the information for next year's Note 10.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
International models are exynos not Qualcomm
dominick_7 said:
Cool, do you know what the model number is? And why go with unlocked, just for the black color and less bloat even though it may have slower updates?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SM-N960WZKAXAC
https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product...12854642.aspx?
TechOut said:
International models are exynos not Qualcomm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's Qualcomm powered phones in China,Japan,Latin America & North America.
The rest have Exynos.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs
Guyinlaca said:
SM-N960WZKAXAC
https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product...12854642.aspx?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats not listed here, https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/ yet, and it seems thats the 128gb model though right?
The Canadian model probably has band 71. I don't know if anything has changed since T-Mobile's acquisition of band 71.
So annoying ghat the USA has odd bands compared to everyone else right?
mikey_sk said:
So annoying ghat the USA has odd bands compared to everyone else right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, I wish I could have purchased a black one without having to jump through all the hoops and risk it not working as well.
I've got the exynos 512/8 midnight black and I will be working in the USA for a few months. Wondering what network over there will be the best fit. Usually it's either T Mobile or ATT as they are GSM... But his band 71 gig means that I am effectively unable to use tmo 4g?
mikey_sk said:
I've got the exynos 512/8 midnight black and I will be working in the USA for a few months. Wondering what network over there will be the best fit. Usually it's either T Mobile or ATT as they are GSM... But his band 71 gig means that I am effectively unable to use tmo 4g?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No,T-Mobile has Bands 2/4/5/12/66/71
Band 71 deployment is sparse at best ATM.
Most of T-Mobile users are covered in the rest.
Depending on where you plan to use your phone the most is going to dictate who works best for you.
There is a lot of overlap in most densely populated markets,if you're going to be in the sparsely populated areas AT&T is probably your best bet.
Try out this site,it should give you a good indication of which carriers are best for you:
https://www.cellmapper.net/map
EDIT:
@mikey_sk
I've since edited to remove the VZW recommendation for rural areas,or,just in general,with your phone.
AT&T still likely has a slight advantage in rural areas,check the link I posted for a good indicator on which works best for you.
If you have the D/S version,then,of course you have the luxury of using both T-Mobile & AT&T,if you choose to do so.
Another BTW:
If you're going to be using a fair amount of data & are considering saving some $$$ by using pre-paid MVNOs of AT&T or T-Mobile,be aware all of them are subject to,if not outright,slower speeds vs the main carrier itself.
This is particularly true of any pre-paid option on AT&T & the MVNO's that use their network,read the fine print on any pre-paid service you choose,some have really slow speeds/throttling.
As for MVNO's/prepaid,your best bet is likely MetroPCS,which is actually part of T-Mobile US & most customers are genuinely pleased with the service/speeds & ovearll value.
KOLIOSIS said:
No,T-Mobile has Bands 2/4/5/12/66/71
Band 71 deployment is sparse at best ATM.
Most of T-Mobile users are covered in the rest.
Depending on where you plan to use your phone the most is going to dictate who works best for you.
There is a lot of overlap in most densely populated markets,if you're going to be in the sparsely populated areas AT&T is probably your best bet.
Try out this site,it should give you a good indication of which carriers are best for you:
https://www.cellmapper.net/map
EDIT:
@mikey_sk
I've since edited to remove the VZW recommendation for rural areas,or,just in general,with your phone.
AT&T still likely has a slight advantage in rural areas,check the link I posted for a good indicator on which works best for you.
If you have the D/S version,then,of course you have the luxury of using both T-Mobile & AT&T,if you choose to do so.
Another BTW:
If you're going to be using a fair amount of data & are considering saving some $$$ by using pre-paid MVNOs of AT&T or T-Mobile,be aware all of them are subject to,if not outright,slower speeds vs the main carrier itself.
This is particularly true of any pre-paid option on AT&T & the MVNO's that use their network,read the fine print on any pre-paid service you choose,some have really slow speeds/throttling.
As for MVNO's/prepaid,your best bet is likely MetroPCS,which is actually part of T-Mobile US & most customers are genuinely pleased with the service/speeds & ovearll value.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Yes I know they provide slower speeds to MVNOs over there. In Europe they dont really do this so pre paid is as quick as a contract sim. I am on Three UK and I can use my data (I have 100gb allowance per month) in the USA for free so will only be using the pre paid for receiving calls. I am therefore able to pick either T Mobile or ATT when I am over there depending which one is best etc.

Bands warning

Hi
This probably comes a bit late as most people on the forum already have a Note 9 but just in case this helps someone.
I have previously bought my S7, s8 and s9+ from Europe and imported them to my current home country for use here and another country in South America I regularly visit. So far no problems.
I had just made up my mind to buy the N960F/DS the same way. Pure chance led me to check the bands. I was very surprised to find that, even though 4G works fine on my S9+ here, the N960F does not have compatible 4G bands that would work here. Samsung appears to have changed the availability of bands between the S9+ G965F and the N960F. The only version that will work for 4G here is now the N9600. Lucky I found out just in time before ordering my Note 9.
n-j-f said:
Hi
This probably comes a bit late as most people on the forum already have a Note 9 but just in case this helps someone.
I have previously bought my S7, s8 and s9+ from Europe and imported them to my current home country for use here and another country in South America I regularly visit. So far no problems.
I had just made up my mind to buy the N960F/DS the same way. Pure chance led me to check the bands. I was very surprised to find that, even though 4G works fine on my S9+ here, the N960F does not have compatible 4G bands that would work here. Samsung appears to have changed the availability of bands between the S9+ G965F and the N960F. The only version that will work for 4G here is now the N9600. Lucky I found out just in time before ordering my Note 9.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It might help others if you listed the missing bands. Or linked to your source for that bands are supported.
---------- Post added at 09:18 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:09 AM ----------
Looks to me like the G965F and the N960F both support all the same bands.
https://www.phonemore.com/samsung-galaxy-s9-plus-sm-g965f/specs/3887
https://www.phonemore.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960fds-128gb/specs/4161
On what conclusion do you base this theory on?
Is it because one shows 4G and one doesn't or one shows LTE and the other one doesn't?
I'd recommend comparing true band compatibility by using Samsung's own regional websites under corresponding spec sheets. I don't trust third party websites for accuracy on this matter. Example, got Samsung's website in Brazil and check the note 9 band specs and then go to Samsung's Singapore website and compare the note 9 band specs etc....
n-j-f said:
Hi
This probably comes a bit late as most people on the forum already have a Note 9 but just in case this helps someone.
I have previously bought my S7, s8 and s9+ from Europe and imported them to my current home country for use here and another country in South America I regularly visit. So far no problems.
I had just made up my mind to buy the N960F/DS the same way. Pure chance led me to check the bands. I was very surprised to find that, even though 4G works fine on my S9+ here, the N960F does not have compatible 4G bands that would work here. Samsung appears to have changed the availability of bands between the S9+ G965F and the N960F. The only version that will work for 4G here is now the N9600. Lucky I found out just in time before ordering my Note 9.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
Thanks for the responses. I would be delighted to be wrong, particularly as I have always had Exynos versions before so I could root the phones but the N9600 is Snapdragon.
The main website I look at is Frequencycheck.com. I shall investigate further.
That website has been wrong for me in the past. Use Samsung's own websites to verify bands for each model .
n-j-f said:
Thanks for the responses. I would be delighted to be wrong, particularly as I have always had Exynos versions before so I could root the phones but the N9600 is Snapdragon.
The main website I look at is Frequencycheck.com. I shall investigate further.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk

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